“If my father was alive today, he will be celebrating 140th anniversary of his death”
Definition
A syndrome of acquired progressive decline in intellect, behaviour and personality manifesting with impairment of one or more areas of cognition. (Language, memory, perceptual ability, thinking, proble solving etc.)
Prognosis
Dementia is incurable, and usually progressive.
General Measures
Ideally cared for in the same environment by the same people, in a consistent manner.Emphasis on nutrition, personal hygiene, personal safety.Effort should be made to orientate patients.Address safety issues like falls, wandering, suicidability and driving.Discussions with families and giving them education and support, daily schedules and written directions.Sensory stimulation by prominent display of clocks, calendars.
Follow Up
Periodic physical and mental status monitoring.Periodic support to care giver as appropriate.
